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Matt Carthy MEP to host Discussion on Eel Fishing Ban in Athlone

Sinn Féin MEP for the Midlands North West, Matt Carthy, will host a discussion with local fishermen on the impact of the Eel Fishing Ban in a seminar to be held in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel, Athlone on Friday April 1st from 1pm to 4pm.The seminar will be addressed by speakers from the Marine Institute, the European Commission, Ecofact, Lough Neagh Fishermen’s co-operative and others.Speaking in advance of the seminar, the Sinn Féin MEP said:“As a representative of the Midlands North West, the impact of the ongoing eel fishing ban has come to my attention on a number of occasions.“Many local fishermen have been particularly affected by the conservation efforts and while there is a general consensus on the need to increase eel stocks, there is a growing sense in the sector that an outright ban may not be necessary. In fact many argue that a sustainable policy that doesn’t include an outright ban could play an important part in revitalising local economies.“I am keen to hear the views of all sides of this debate and explore possible avenues that could address the concerns of those involved in the sector.“I would like to invite local fishermen and others who are interested in this issue to come along to the seminar and I look forward to a comprehensive and lively discussion.”ENDS